Tony Cook, from Warrington Borough Council’s Waste Collection Service punched the air when the team was announced winner of the Environmental Hero award at the Guardian Lockdown Heroes Awards.
Dr Hilary told him: “I know how much more work you guys have had to do. Everyone seems to have used lockdown to spring clean their houses and chuck out much more junk than they normally do. Have you found that?”
Tony said: “Yes definitely. I’d say there was round about a 35 per cent increase in waste and we have had to put extra crews on. But we have been using a lot of people who have been furloughed, helping local people to get work out of it.”
He added: “We are the only council in the North West to keep all three services on and there has been an increase of 38 per cent in recycling. We have dealt with that by taking 18 extra staff on.
“Probably one of the best things we have done is that we have helped St Rocco’s Hospice through the Christmas tree collection. Fifty staff went there and raised £42,000 for the local hospice.”
Steve Andrews, Waste Services Manager, praised the other finalists for their hard work. He said: “It all helps to keep our community safe and clean.
David Boyer, the council’s Director of Environment & Transport Directorate, who nominated the team, said lockdowns had been difficult for many in the borough.
David added: “Covid-19 has created a lot of fear and uncertainty; however, here at Warrington’s Waste Collection department, our collection teams have continued their gold star service to the residents of the borough.
“Classed as key workers, the teams have received a vast increase in support from the local community since the pandemic struck. It has managed to maintain all its collection streams through dedication, professionalism and hard work.
“Even after a number of staff contracted the virus, they returned to the depot following isolation and put themselves back on operational duties immediately supporting their colleagues.”
Dr Hilary also praised youngsters Aneeshwar, Hannah and Eriu and thanked them for the work they were doing for the planet and their passion, describing them as “the future”.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Aneeshwar Kunchala COMMENDED: Hannah Needs and Eriu Brown
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